Desert Hot Springs Teen Carjacks Woman & Leads Police on High-Speed Chase

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PALM SPRINGS – A 16-year-old Desert Hot Springs boy was arrested after a carjacking and high-speed pursuit officials said.

Palm Springs police were dispatched to the 100 block of S. Farrell Drive on Monday, August 20, 2018, at around 6:41 a.m. when a woman called to report a carjacking had just occurred. The female victim reported that her car was taken by an unknown male wearing a scarf on his face to conceal his identity. She told dispatchers that the male suspect held a knife to her in order to take her vehicle.

A detective from the Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) was driving in the area and found the vehicle. He notified dispatch requesting additional units to assist. The suspect drove away at high speeds when he noticed the patrol vehicle. PSPD Officers chased the suspect through Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs. The suspect continued attempting to evade the officers, driving recklessly and eventually onto a dirt road. The suspect crashed the vehicle in the desert area near Mission Lakes Blvd. and Little Morongo Road.

Officers were able to quickly detain the juvenile suspect. He was arrested and transported back to Palm Springs. This incident is currently being investigated as a Carjacking (PC 215) and Felony Reckless Evading Peace Officers (CVC 2800.2). The vehicles sustained minor damage and the knife, believed to be used in the initial crime, was recovered inside the vehicle.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation, please contact PSPD 760-323- 8115. You can also make anonymous crime tips through Crime Stoppers at 760-341-7867.